What to Do with Ramen Noodle Seasoning (Besides Putting It in a Bowl of Ramen)

Have you ever made instant ramen without the seasoning packet? Maybe you’re cutting back on sodium. Maybe you used the rectangle of dried noodles for something else (they make a really good salad topping, as it were) and didn’t need the savory packet of dried meat juices and MSG that comes with it. Or hey, maybe you found a really good deal on six loose ramen packets on Craigslist! Regardless, what we’re getting at is that there’s a lot you can do with ramen noodle seasoning besides putting it in noodles. Put down those chopsticks; we have some creative ways you can use those stray packets floating around in your pantry.

Sprinkle It on Popcorn

An obvious choice. A lot of brands are already making ramen-flavored snack mixes, but if you want a simpler DIY option, go with a classic: popcorn. Pop some kernels in the ol’ air popper (we’re partial to Dash’s version), coat the popcorn with melted butter or Pam, and then shake it up with a ramen seasoning packet. (We happen to know from personal experience that this is especially delicious with the Lime Chile Shrimp Maruchan seasoning.)

Make a Dip

Your new favorite dip might be an unexpected one! Leave the Lipton onion dip mix in the cabinet the next time you have company coming over and mix ramen seasoning with sour cream and a couple tablespoons of mayo instead. It’ll deliver a warm, umami flavor that’ll leave your guests wondering what your secret was (don’t tell them; secrets are fun). You can go light and add it to nonfat Greek yogurt, too.

Season Instant Mashed Potatoes

Instant mashed potatoes can be pretty dull, especially if you’re making them from that big, cheap box of spuds. Those come totally unseasoned and they desperately need zsushing up. Instead of adding a bunch of salt and pepper, toss in some chicken ramen seasoning—now that’s savory stuff, my guy. You’ll never bother boiling a potato again.

Add It to Mayo-Based Salads

Sure, you can just add some mayo to a can of canned tuna or canned chicken and call it a salad, but that melt is gonna be a whole lot tastier if you add some ramen seasoning to the mix. Both meats are pretty neutral, so you can go kinda wild with this one—roast beef flavored tuna salad, anyone?

Make Savory Rice

Replace your ramen noodles with dry rice and watch those white, pearly grains soak up that beautiful broth. You can quickly throw it together if you’re looking for a straightforward snack or use it as a foundation for an even grander meal.